Canada is preparing for a significant population shift, with nearly 5 million visas set to expire between December 2024 and December 2025. This could result in up to 1 in 10 residents leaving the country voluntarily. The government hopes that most individuals whose visas expire will depart on their own, but there are concerns about those who may choose to stay without authorization.
In Parliament, Calgary MP Tom Kmiec highlighted the issue, noting that 766,000 study permits are among those expiring by the end of December 2025. He questioned how the government plans to ensure these individuals leave the country. Immigration Minister Marc Miller responded that the majority are expected to leave voluntarily, though he acknowledged that this may not be the case for everyone.
The government has faced criticism for not acting sooner to manage temporary migration. Minister Miller admitted that earlier action might have mitigated the current situation. The government now plans to reduce both permanent and temporary immigration over the next two years, aiming to slightly decrease the population.
Enforcement of visa expirations has been a challenge for Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) had over 30,000 outstanding warrants last year, including hundreds considered a public danger. Notable cases, such as that of former African warlord Bill Horrace, who lived in Canada for 18 years despite being deemed ineligible to stay, highlight the difficulties in enforcing immigration laws.
The government is also introducing a sector-specific program to address labor shortages, offering 50 spots cumented immigrants in certain industries. This initiative aims to balance the need for labor with the enforcement of immigration regulations.
As Canada navigates this complex situation, the effectiveness of its immigration policies and enforcement measures will be closely scrutinized. The government's ability to manage the departure of temporary residents and address labor market needs will have significant implications for the country's economic and social landscape.